Foundation For The Carolinas

Beyond The Bio

Society EN ↓ 4 episodes

Welcome to “Beyond The Bio” - hosted by Cathy Bessant, longtime banking executive and now CEO of Foundation For The Carolinas. This series features conversations with people who are shaping their lives, careers and communities in bold and meaningful ways. From career pivots to leadership lessons, philanthropy to personal growth, each episode dives into the moments that define us — the choices we make, the risks we take and the stories that connect us all.

Author

Foundation For The Carolinas

Episodes

The Soldier, the Baker and the Changemaker - Manolo Betancur 23.04.2026 51:59

On this episode of Beyond the Bio, Cathy Bessant, former CEO of Foundation For The Carolinas, sits down with Manolo Betancur, owner of Manolo's Bakery. From leaving Colombia in search of opportunity to building one of Charlotte's most beloved businesses, Manolo's story is one of resilience, service and heart. More than a business owner, Manolo has become a champion for the immigrant community,...

The Courage to Change the Course with Dr. Valerie Kinloch 04.03.2026 1:01:53

In episode 3 of Beyond the Bio, Foundation For The Carolina’s CEO, Cathy Bessant sits down with Dr. Valerie Kinloch, to talk about her full circle journey from Charleston, SC to becoming the 15th president of Johnson C. Smith University. Biochemistry to English. First generation student to university president. Dr. Kinloch reflects on growing comfortable in her own skin, changing course whe...

From Charlotte Squawks to Charlotte Talks 04.09.2025 44:30

From Charlotte Squawks to Charlotte Talks Guest Speaker: Mike Collins In this episode of "Beyond The Bio", Cathy Bessant sits down with Mike Collins, the longtime host of Charlotte Talks on WFAE. With over 50 years in broadcasting, Mike shares his insights on Charlotte’s growth, the power of local journalism and the stories that have shaped our community. Additional resources: Charlotte Tal...

Cupcakes, Courage & Career Pivots 24.06.2025 47:20

Cupcakes, Courage & Career Pivots Guest Speaker: Molly Grantham In the premiere episode, Cathy Bessant chats with long-time friend Molly Grantham — former TV anchor turned entrepreneur — about taking bold career leaps, betting on yourself and the power of trusting your gut. Additional resources: www.instagram.com/molly_grantham/ www.facebook.com/WBTVMollyGrantham www.linkedin.com/i...